Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 13 November 2012

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade

Misappropriation of Irish Aid Funds in Uganda: Discussion with Irish Aid

12:10 pm

Photo of Michael MullinsMichael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the delegation and thank the Chairman and the Minister for the swift action taken.

It is clear this fraud came to light because of the vigilance of the Auditor General in Uganda. What confidence can we have that fraud is not taking place in other countries in which we provide substantial aid? We would like assurance in that regard. Are there any plans to strengthen oversight procedures to ensure this type of issue does not arise again?

Mr. Rodgers referred to the fact that the €4 million misappropriated is to be repaid. What is the timescale for that repayment? With regard to the suspension of €16 million in aid, what is the likely outcome of the situation? Deputy O'Sullivan referred to the reaction in Uganda, but the reaction here has been quite negative, particularly on radio shows over the past weeks. What is being done to ensure we maintain public support for Irish Aid and to ensure Irish people continue to support worthy causes abroad and help fund the underprivileged throughout the world? There is a job of work to be done to repair the damage that has been done as a result of this. While the situation has been handled well, people still feel that if it can happen in one country, it could be a widespread activity.

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